EXPLAINED: Why Pakistan will wear pink jersey against South Africa in T20I clash

Pakistan to wear pink jersey in clash against South Africa. (Photo: X)

Pakistan will be eager to move on from the disappointment of their Asia Cup final defeat to India last month in Dubai as they gear up for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Their preparations begin with a three-match T20I series at home against South Africa, starting Tuesday in Rawalpindi. Both sides head into the contest after sharing honors in a 1-1 drawn Test series in Pakistan.

Ahead of the T20Is, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed a brand-new pink kit on social media with the caption, "Turning pink for a cause that matters."

According to a statement released earlier by the PCB, the initiative supports the “Pink Ribbon Pakistan” campaign during #PINKtober, which focuses on raising awareness about breast cancer. As part of this effort, the Salman Ali Agha-led Pakistan team will wear specially designed pink jerseys, while the South African players and match officials will sport pink ribbons to show solidarity with the cause.

The coaching staff of both teams, along with commentators, will also take part by wearing pink ribbons.

Additionally, the stumps for the opening T20I in Rawalpindi will be painted pink, and awareness messages about breast cancer will be shared by commentators throughout the live coverage.

"The Pakistan Cricket Board takes immense pride in using the power and reach of cricket to create awareness about causes that affect our society," PCB chief operating officer Sumair Ahmed Syed said.

"Through the Pink Ribbon campaign, we aim to highlight the importance of early detection and regular screening for breast cancer, which can save countless lives."

This initiative is part of a broader global tradition in cricket of supporting breast cancer awareness. South Africa hosts an annual Pink ODI, where the national team wears pink, while in Australia, Day 3 of the New Year Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground is dedicated to Jane McGrath Day—held in memory of Glenn McGrath’s late wife—to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. The day is marked with a pink theme across the venue.